So close...

As the saying goes 'so close yet so far away'....

So Close.....

A quick look back at the season's end and how close Chiefs came to a top 4 spot in the Prem and a first ever playoff for a tilt at the title.

 It couldn't have been closer with just 20 points difference separating Sarries in 5th and one additional win giving Tigers 3rd, all teams on 68 points.  Sarries then go on to win the final v Bath and I can't help wondering how things might have worked out if Saints had beaten Tigers.  

However there's nothing to be gained from speculation as it's not going to change what has been another great season from the Chiefs.  We ended with equal points as 3rd place, a semi-final place in the Challenge Cup and losing finalist in the LV=Cup.

 So another season of progress fromm Rob Baxters squad and a far cry from the 9th spot predicted by most pundits.  Although a certain Mr Austin Healey predicted even worse for us suggesing we might end up below London Welsh!  

When you consider that we have been playing a lot of inexperienced players this season 5th place is some result.  Of course Rob brought in what must have been the best signing of any Prem side in the shape of Thomas The Tank Waldrom.  His experience, which has rubbed off on the likes of Dave Ewers and an incredible ability to find the try line have proved invaluabe.  He has really enjoyed his first season and 2 of his Tigers colleagues are coming to join him next eeason.

 I'm not sure they'll have the same passion for cream teas but both will be welcomed with open arms by The Tribe.  I can't wait for next season with pre-season starting with the West Country triple header.  Athough the Prem won't start until after the World Cup.